Invisibility By Ciardha

Bulimia Nervosa, or simply bulimia, is a serious mental health condition characterized by recurring episodes of binge eating (consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often out of control). Followed y compensatory behaviours life self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or misuseof laxatives, to try to 'undo' the binge.

Health Risks exists with bulimia; such as electrolyte imbalance, gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux, stomach rupture or chronic sore throat, dental problems, swollen salivary glands, irregular menstrual cycles and often deep emotional distress, depression and anxiety.

Bulimia affects about 1-2% of the population but could be more due to underreporting. It commonly begins in late teens to early adultood to all genders. MAny appear to be in 'normal' or higher weight range leading doctors and loved ones to miss the signs.

Binging may be used to numb feelings; purging becomes the attempt to regain control. Bulimia can be difficult to spot but has a few signs like disappearing after meals, evidence of purging like frequent bathroom visits, wrappers and laxatives.Cognitive Behavoural Therapy (CBT) to break the binge-purge cycle and address underlying thoughts, nutritional counseling, medication, therapy and monitoring are treatment types that can lead to recovery. It happens one step at a time, not overnight.

Speaking up saves lives. Here are a few who’ve shared their stories:   

• Demi Lovato, singer and activist, has talked openly about living with bulimia, addiction, and the journey to self-acceptance.
• Russell Brand revealed he struggled with bulimia as a teen-breaking stigma for men.
• Paula Abdul opened up about her long battle with the disorder, breaking ground in the entertainment world.
• Lady Gaga has spoken about struggling with both anorexia and bulimia, advocating for mental health support.

Mental health challenges are real and support is available through the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

• Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Helpline: Call 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433). This is a national 24-hour service provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

• U-Matter (Youth Support): A messaging-based chatline for young people. Text 876-838-4897 via WhatsApp or SMS.

• SafeSpot (Child/Teen Hotline): Call 888-723-3776 or WhatsApp 876-439-5199. This is a dedicated multi-sectoral helpline for children and adolescents.

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876)838-4897.

• Emergency Services: For urgent physical safety or medical emergencies, call 119.

• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) Hotline: This hotline provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7. Contact them at (876) 9223826.

Thank you for joinging me on this episode of Invisibility by Ciardha Remember, Invisible no more. Open Eyes, Open Minds. See you next time!!

#EatingDisorderAwareness#EDAwareness #EatingDisorderRecovery #EDEducation #MentalHealthMatters#UnderstandingED #BodyNeutrality

#DietCultureDropout #IntuitiveEating#AllBodiesAreGoodBodies #FoodFreedom #EDRecoveryCommunity#NEDA (National Eating DisordersAssociation) #RecoveryIsPossible #SupportNotStigma #HealingJourney #BoysGetEDsToo

TRIGGER WARNING

Anorexia Nervosa is a serious mental illness characterized by:

• Extreme restriction of food intake.

• An intense fear of gaining weight, even when underweight.

• A distorted body image, where someone sees themselves as larger thanthey are.

Anorexia is not a choice.

Recovery from anorexia is possible—but it takes time, support, and often a team approach.

Treatment may include:

• Psychotherapy – Especially Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Nutritional rehabilitation – Helping the body and brain recover from malnutrition

• Medical monitoring – Tomanage physical health and risk factors

• Medication – Sometimesused for co-occurring anxiety or depression

• Inpatient or residential treatment – For more severe or life-threatening cases

iF someone you love is struggling:

• Don’t comment on their weight or food. Even compliments can be triggering.

• Avoid praise for weight loss. You never know what’s behind it.

• Be patient, not pushy.Recovery is hard, and resistance is part of the illness.

• Listen, validate, and encourage treatment. Offer to go with them or help find support.

Say things like:

“I’m worried about you, and I care.”
“You don’t have to go through this alone.”
“You’re more than your body.”

You might not fix it—but your presence can make all the difference.

Celebrities Who’ve Shared Their Stories

Lily Collins portrayed an anorexia survivor in To the Bone and shared her own experience with the illness.

Demi Lovato has spoken candidly about her struggles with eating disorders and recovery.

Karen Carpenter, a legendary singer, tragically passed away from complications related to anorexia—bringing much-needed attention to the illness.

These stories remind us that fame, success, and beauty don’t protect us from mental illness. And no one is immune to the painAnorexia is not a diet.
It’s not about food.
It’s a devastating mental illness—and a cry for help.

If you’re struggling, or someone you know is, please remember:
You are not alone. You are not broken. You are not beyond help.

Recovery isn’t easy—but it is worth it. And you are worth it.

Mental health challenges are real and support is available through the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

• Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Helpline: Call 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433). This is a national 24-hour service provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

• U-Matter (Youth Support): A messaging-based chatline for young people. Text 876-838-4897 via WhatsApp or SMS.

• SafeSpot (Child/Teen Hotline): Call 888-723-3776 or WhatsApp 876-439-5199. This is a dedicated multi-sectoral helpline for children and adolescents.

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876)838-4897.

• Emergency Services: For urgent physical safety or medical emergencies, call 119.

• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) Hotline: This hotline provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7. Contact them at (876) 9223826.

Thank you for joinging me on this episode of Invisibility by Ciardha Remember, Invisible no more. Open Eyes, Open Minds. See you next time!!

#EatingDisorderAwareness#EDAwareness #EatingDisorderRecovery #EDEducation #MentalHealthMatters#UnderstandingED #BodyNeutrality

#DietCultureDropout #IntuitiveEating#AllBodiesAreGoodBodies #FoodFreedom #EDRecoveryCommunity#NEDA (National Eating DisordersAssociation) #RecoveryIsPossible #SupportNotStigma #HealingJourney #BoysGetEDsToo

Music track: Coming Of Age by Hazelwood

Source: https://freetouse.com/music

No Copyright Vlog Music for Videos

Trigger Warning (TW)Eating disorders are very serious, complex mental health conditions that involve disordered thoughts and behaviours around food, body image, and weight.

Treatment and Recovery

Theray: CBT, DBT, FBT

Medical Monitoring

Nutritional counseling

Medication to address underlying conditions such as anxiety and depression.

Support group or peer recovery communities

If someone you care about is struggling:

1. Listen without being judgemental
2. Avoid commenting on their ppearance, food or weight- even compliments can be triggering.
3. Encouraging professional help
4. Be patient-it's not about "just eating more" or "snapping out of it"
5. Let them know they are worthy and loved exactly as they are.

Even just saying “I see you. I’m here for you” can be powerful.Mental health challenges are real and support is available through the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

• Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Helpline: Call 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433). This is a national 24-hour service provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

• U-Matter (Youth Support): A messaging-based chatline for young people. Text 876-838-4897 via WhatsApp or SMS.

• SafeSpot (Child/Teen Hotline): Call 888-723-3776 or WhatsApp 876-439-5199. This is a dedicated multi-sectoral helpline for children and adolescents.

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876)838-4897.

• Emergency Services: For urgent physical safety or medical emergencies, call 119.

• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) Hotline: This hotline provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7. Contact them at (876) 9223826.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Invisibility by Ciardha.

Remember, Invisible no more. Open Eyes, Open Minds. See you next time!!

#EatingDisorderAwareness#EDAwareness #EatingDisorderRecovery #EDEducation #MentalHealthMatters#UnderstandingED #BodyNeutrality

#DietCultureDropout #IntuitiveEating#AllBodiesAreGoodBodies #FoodFreedom #EDRecoveryCommunity#NEDA (National Eating DisordersAssociation) #RecoveryIsPossible #SupportNotStigma #HealingJourney #BoysGetEDsToo

Music track: Cinematic by AylexSource: https://freetouse.com/musicNo Copyright Background Music

In this episode, we dive into Seasonal Affective Disore (S.A.D), a type pf depression that maps to the seasons. WHile often called "winter depression," it affects millions globally through changes in energy, mood, and sleep.

Celebrities who have opened up about SAD include:

• Adele, who said the British winters triggered "really bad" seasonal depression.

• Ryan Reynolds, who spoke candidly about his mental health journey, noting that the grey, dark winters in his native Vancouver affected his mood and energy.

• Rosie O'Donnell, she is an early advocate for SAD awareness, she has demonstrated 'inversion therapy' and light box usage on her shows to manage symptoms.

• Natalie Imbruglia, the singer has shared her experiences with seasonal shifts, highlighting that SAD can affect anyone regardless of their creative success

While Jamaica is known for its sunshine, mental health challenges are real and support is available through the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

• Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Helpline: Call 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433). This is a national 24-hour service provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

• U-Matter (Youth Support): A messaging-based chatline for young people. Text 876-838-4897 via WhatsApp or SMS.

• SafeSpot (Child/Teen Hotline): Call 888-723-3776 or WhatsApp 876-439-5199. This is a dedicated multi-sectoral helpline for children and adolescents.

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876)838-4897.

• Emergency Services: For urgent physical safety or medical emergencies, call 119.

• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) Hotline: This hotline provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7. Contact them at (876) 9223826.

Thank you for joinging me on this episode of Invisibility by Ciardha Remember, Invisible no more. Open Eyes, Open Minds. See you next time!!

If someone you love is struggling after childbirth, here’s how to support them:

Don’t say “but the baby’s healthy!” That invalidates their experience.

Ask, don’t assume – “How are you really feeling?”

Take action – Cook a meal. Hold the baby while they shower. Text just to check in.

Encourage professional help – Offer to help find a therapist or go with them.

Watch for warning signs – If they talk about not wanting to live, or seem disconnected, get help immediately.

Support can be life-saving. Don’t wait for them to ask—because they may be too deep in it to reach out.

You’re Not Alone – Celebrities Who’ve Spoken Out

Chrissy Teigen wrote openly about her PPD, saying she didn’t think she could love her baby the way she was “supposed to.”

Brooke Shields broke barriers when she publicly discussed her postpartum experience in the early 2000s.

Adele, in interviews, has talked about her postpartum anxiety and the shame that came with it.

Serena Williams spoke about the emotional struggles after a traumatic birth.

Their stories remind us: this can happen to anyone. And healing is possible.

Support is available

Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention HelplineThis is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling

(888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE.

This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.  

SafeSpot: This is Jamaica's national child and teen helpline, operated by the Office of the Children's Advocate. They offer confidential counselling for children and teens 24/7. You can contact them via:

Phone: (888) 723-3776or888-SAFE-SPOT  

Text: (876) 439-5199 

Snapchat: @safespotja

Instagram: @safespotja 

U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth inpartnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876) 838-4897.

Ministry of Health & Wellness Mental HealthToll-FreeHelpline:

You can also call (888) 663-5683 or 888-ONE-LOVEfor mental health support.

Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)Hotline:

This hotline, at (876) 922-3826, provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7.

Emergency Line: In case of an immediate crisis, you can call 119, which is the national emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance, includingmental health emergencies.

Thank you for joining me on Invisibility by Ciardha. Invisible no more; open eyes, open minds.

Living in the shadows of Major Depressive Disorder can feel incredibly isolating, but it doesn't have to be a life sentence. By opening our eyes and our minds, by fosteringunderstanding and support, we can begin to dismantle the stigma and bring these experiences into the light. We can help individuals feel seen, heard, and ultimately, less invisible.

If someone you love is struggling:

• Don't push toxic positivity. Instead of 'just cheer up'. Try 'I'm here for you, even on the low days.'
• Be consistent. Reach out regularly, even if they don't always respond.
• Encourage treatment without judgment. Offer to help find a therapist or go with them to appointments.
• Listen-really listen- without needing to 'fix' them.
• Sometimes the best thing you can say, “You’re not a burden. I’m not going anywhere.”

• Focus on their strengths: Notice and acknowledge what they are doing well. Set small, realistic goalstogether.
• Encourage social connection: Helpthem stay connected with friends and family, even if they withdraw at times. Lonliness can worsen symptoms.
• Reduce stress: Help create a calm and structured environment, as stress can trigger or worsen symtoms.

CAREGIVERS REMEMBER TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!!

• Set boundaries: Recognise your own limits and don't try to do everything. Your well-being is also important.
• Seek Support for yourself: Consider joining a support group for families of people with mental illness. Sharing experiences and coping strategies with others in similar situations can be incredibly helpful.

• Talk to a therapist or counsellor: Processing your own feelings and experiences can help you better support your loved one.

Here’s the truth—stigma kills. It keeps people from seeking help. It isolates. It silences.

Helplines and Hotlines:

• Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention HelplineThis is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling (888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE. This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.  
• SafeSpot: This is Jamaica's national child and teen helpline, operated by the Office of the Children's Advocate. THey offer confidential counselling for children and teens 24/7. You can contact them via:

• Phone: (888) 723-3776 or888-SAFE-SPOT  
• Text: (876) 439-5199  
• Snapchat: @safespotja
• Instagram: @safespotja  

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth inpartnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876) 838-4897.

•   Ministry of Health & Wellness Mental HealthToll-Free Helpline: You can also call (888) 663-5683 or 888-ONE-LOVE for mental health support.

• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)Hotline:This hotline, at (876) 922-3826, provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7.

• Emergency Line: In case of an immediate crisis, you can call 119, which is the national emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance, includingmental health emergencies.

Thank you for joining me on Invisibility by Ciardha. Remember our motto: Invisible no more; open eyes, open minds. Let's continue to have these important conversations.

Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline: This is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling (888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE. This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.

• SafeSpot: This is Jamaica's national child and teen helpline, operated by the Office of the Children's Advocate. They offer confidential counseling for children and teens 24/7. You can contact them via:

   Phone: (888) 723-3776 or 888-SAFE-SPOT     Text: (876) 439-5199  

Snapchat: @safespotja

Instagram:@safespotja  

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876) 838-4897.  
• 
  
• Ministry of Health & Wellness Mental Health Toll-Free Helpline:
• You can also call (888) 663-5683 or 888-ONE-LOVE for mental health support.
• 
  
• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) Hotline: This hotline, at (876) 922-3826, provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7.

• RISE Life Management Services: This organization offers mental health support and can be reached at (876) 967-3777-8 or toll-free at 888-991-4146.

•   Important Considerations:Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, and it's important to remember that things can get better with support.  
• Reaching out to a crisis counselor can provide a safe space to talk and help you see that there are other options.  
• Jamaica is working to break down the stigma associated with mental health and encourage open conversations.  

Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline: This is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling (888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE. This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.

   Phone: (888) 723-3776 or 888-SAFE-SPOT     Text: (876) 439-5199  

Snapchat: @safespotja

Instagram:@safespotja  

  Important Considerations:Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, and it's important to remember that things can get better with support.  

Reaching out to a crisis counselor can provide a safe space to talk and help you see that there are other options.  

Jamaica is working to break down the stigma associated with mental health and encourage open conversations.  

KEY FACTS TAKEN FROM WHO

1. Affordable, effective and feasible strategies exist to promote, protect and restore mentalhealth.·The need for action on mental health is indisputable and urgent.
2. Mental health has intrinsic and instrumental value and is integral to our well-being.
3. ·Mental health is determined by a complex interplay of individual, social and structural stressesand vulnerabilities."

"Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community"

If you or anyone you know, are struggling today or need someone to talk to about your or someone else's mental health, contact the Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline at (888)639-5433.

"Invisibility by Ciardha" returns for its second season, diving deep into the often-unseen landscape of mental health. This season, Ciardha shifts the focus from broad societal perspectives to the deeply personal journey of understanding and nurturing your own mental well-being.

In a world that often prioritizes external achievements and relentless productivity, we're invited to explore the inner world – the emotions, thoughts, and experiences that shape our daily lives. Kimberley, with compassion and curiosity, guides listeners through crucial conversations about self-awareness, resilience, and the power of vulnerability.

This season tackles questions like: What does genuine mental wellness look like? How can we navigate the complexities of stress, anxiety, and self-doubt? And, most importantly, how can we cultivate a sense of inner peace and connection in a world that often feels isolating?

Through insightful interviews, personal reflections, and practical tools, "Mental Health and You" aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and empower listeners to prioritize their own well-being. Kimberley creates a safe and supportive space for open dialogue, reminding us that vulnerability is a strength and that seeking support is a sign of courage.

Join Kimberley as we illuminate the often-invisible aspects of mental health and embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Because your mental health matters, and you are far from invisible.